Diabetes and Foot Care: Why Daily Checks Matter

For people living with diabetes, proper foot care is essential. Foot problems are common among individuals with diabetes and can become serious very quickly if not addressed early.

Diabetes can damage nerves and blood vessels, especially in the feet. This makes it harder to feel pain, pressure, heat, or cold — meaning cuts, blisters, or sores may go unnoticed. At the same time, diabetes can reduce the body’s ability to fight infection, increasing the risk of complications.

Even a minor foot injury can progress into an ulcer or serious infection if left untreated. That’s why prevention and early detection are critical.

Why Diabetes Increases Foot Injury Risk

People with diabetes are more vulnerable to foot problems because:

• Reduced sensation makes injuries harder to detect

• Poor circulation slows healing

• Infections can spread more quickly

• Pressure points can lead to skin breakdown

Foot ulcers commonly develop on:

• The bottom of the foot

• The tops or bases of the toes

• Areas exposed to repeated pressure or friction

How to Care for Your Feet If You Have Diabetes

1. Check Your Feet Daily

• Inspect your feet at least once a day, including between the toes

• Use a mirror or magnifying glass to see the soles if needed

• Look for cuts, blisters, redness, swelling, cracks, or colour changes

2. Wash and Dry Feet Properly

• Wash feet daily with warm (not hot) water and mild soap

• Dry thoroughly, especially between the toes

• Apply moisturizer to dry skin — avoid between the toes

3. Wear Proper Footwear

• Choose well-fitting shoes with good support

• Wear seam-free socks to prevent friction

• Break in new shoes gradually (a few hours per day at first)

• Never walk barefoot, even indoors

4. Protect Feet From Injury

• Check shoes before wearing them for rough spots or objects

• Inspect feet after activities like walking, hiking, or skiing

• Trim toenails carefully or have them trimmed professionally

5. Seek Early Medical Care

• Do not ignore minor foot issues

• See a healthcare provider promptly for:

  • Cuts or sores that don’t heal

  • Redness, warmth, or swelling

  • Signs of infection

Early treatment can prevent ulcers, infections, and even amputations.

Why First Aid Knowledge Matters for Diabetic Foot Care

Knowing how to recognize early warning signs, manage minor wounds, and respond appropriately is a key part of first aid education in Canada — especially for caregivers, family members, and workplaces.

Disclaimer

The information provided on this page is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions regarding a medical condition or injury.

To learn how to recognize, prevent, and respond to medical emergencies and injuries, consider taking a First Aid and CPR course with St. Mark James Training, Canada’s largest 100% Canadian-owned and operated first aid and CPR training provider.